Representative Abney honored with “Citizen of the Year” award

May 30, 2017

Chairman of the House Committee on Finance Marvin L. Abney (D-Dist. 73, Newport, Middletown) was recently honored by the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. – Sigma Nu Chapter as their “Citizen of the Year” in recognition of his exemplary demonstration of leadership, integrity, empowerment, mentorship, community service and stewardship in every aspect of his life.

“This is a true honor to be recognized by my brothers in the Omega Psi Phi family. I am the man I am today due to the lessons being a part of Omega Psi Phi taught me. The bond we have is inseparable, as is our devotion to helping our communities through leading by example for the many future generations of Omega Psi Phi brothers. I’d like to thank the Sigma Nu chapter for this tremendous honor and I promise to continue living with the Omega Psi Phi principals in my heart,” said Representative Abney.

“Omega Psi Phi’s main focus as an organization is the well-being of future generations through mentorship, leadership, and demonstrating what is necessary in order to succeed in this world. When taking this into account, there is no one who believes in, and puts into action, this focus more than Representative Abney and that is why it was our honor to recognize him as our Citizen of the Year,” said Keith Mathews.

“We are all extremely proud of what Brother Abney has accomplished throughout his life and we as an organization are even more grateful for his tireless good works in the community. He is truly deserving of this recognition as he is a shining example of what Omega Psi Phi instills in the minds and hearts of our members,” said Irving Caesar.

“The foundation of Omega Psi Phi has been built upon the shoulders of those who have come before us and this foundation of shared values will only become stronger as we welcome in new generations of young men who wish to better themselves and their communities. Representative Abney is part of this foundation and by designating him as our Citizen of Year, he is showing all Omega Psi Phi brothers what is possible through hard work, compassion, and the motivation to make a better world for us all,” said Jerry Morgan.

Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. is an international organization of college-educated men, who’s four “Cardinal Principles” are Manhood, Scholarship, Perseverance, and Uplift. The organization is currently celebrating 106 years of service to their communities, having been founded at Howard University in 1911.

The Sigma Nu Chapter, based in Providence and founded in 1971, is comprised of graduate students, professionals, educators, clergy, and business owners who continue to espouse the “Principles of Omega.”